There are few desserts as irresistible as this Caramel Brownie Cheesecake. Combining the dense richness of brownies, the creamy texture of cheesecake, and a luxurious drizzle of caramel sauce, this dessert feels like pure indulgence on a plate. Each layer offers something unique — the chewy base gives structure, the creamy cheesecake adds balance, and the caramel ties everything together in sweet harmony. This recipe is perfect for celebrations or those evenings when you simply want to treat yourself to something truly special. I tried making this using homemade caramel sauce, and it elevated the flavor beautifully — though store-bought caramel works just fine if you’re short on time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesecake is not just delicious; it’s a showstopper. The contrast between the fudgy brownie crust and smooth cheesecake filling makes every bite unforgettable. It’s perfect for dinner parties, birthdays, or as a luxurious weekend baking project. Plus, it stores beautifully, so you can enjoy slices for days afterward.
Print
Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Recipe: Ultimate Indulgence
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and decadent Caramel Brownie Cheesecake that layers fudgy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and luscious caramel for the ultimate dessert indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 box (18 oz) brownie mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (for cheesecake layer)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for topping
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Prepare the brownie mix according to package directions using oil, eggs, and water. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla, sour cream, flour, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the partially baked brownie base.
- Spoon the remaining brownie batter on top in dollops and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is just set. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving, and top with chopped nuts if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle sea salt over the caramel before serving.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth batter.
- This cheesecake can be made a day ahead for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Brownie Layer
The base of this cheesecake begins with butter, which gives the brownie its rich and moist texture. Use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness. Next, granulated sugar provides the perfect sweetness and helps achieve that slightly crackly brownie top. Eggs are essential for binding and giving the brownies a fudgy consistency. Then comes all-purpose flour, creating structure without making the base too cakey. Cocoa powder delivers that deep chocolate flavor we all love — opt for Dutch-processed cocoa if possible. Finally, a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Cheesecake Layer
For the creamy middle, start with cream cheese, the star ingredient that provides a velvety smooth texture. Granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake while maintaining a light consistency. Eggs add structure and help the cheesecake set evenly. A touch of sour cream brings a subtle tang that complements the richness of the caramel. Finally, vanilla extract ties everything together with a warm aroma that enhances both the brownie and caramel layers.
Caramel Topping
You’ll need caramel sauce, either homemade or store-bought. If you’re making it yourself, butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream create a luscious, buttery topping that perfectly contrasts with the dense cheesecake. A sprinkle of sea salt can transform this into a salted caramel masterpiece.
Directions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a springform pan with parchment paper. Melt the butter and mix it with sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined. Spread the batter evenly into the pan and bake for 20 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until creamy. Blend in eggs one by one, followed by sour cream and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the cooled brownie base.
- Bake: Place the pan in a water bath and bake for about 60–65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
- Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Add Caramel: Before serving, pour warm caramel sauce over the cheesecake and let it drip beautifully down the sides. Add a light sprinkle of sea salt if desired.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Springform pan (9-inch recommended)
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan (for caramel)
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 10–12 people generously.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 85 minutes (including baking both layers)
Cooling time: 4–6 hours
Total time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Storage/reheating
Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and drizzle fresh caramel before serving. Avoid reheating, as it may affect the cheesecake’s creamy texture.
Variations and Customizations
Salted Caramel Twist – Add sea salt flakes on top for a sweet-salty combination that enhances the caramel flavor.
Nutty Delight – Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the brownie batter for added crunch.
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle – Replace or add to the caramel with a layer of dark chocolate ganache for a double-chocolate indulgence.
Espresso Boost – Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie base to intensify the chocolate flavor.
White Chocolate Cheesecake – Swirl melted white chocolate into the cheesecake batter for a beautiful marbled effect.
Toffee Crunch – Sprinkle crushed toffee bits over the caramel layer for a satisfying texture contrast.
Mini Cheesecakes – Make the recipe in muffin tins for individual servings — perfect for parties.
FAQs
Can I use a boxed brownie mix?
Yes, you can substitute homemade brownie batter with a boxed mix for convenience.
Do I need a water bath for baking?
Yes, it helps prevent cracks and ensures an even, creamy texture.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The edges should be set, and the center should jiggle slightly when gently shaken.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the brownie layer.
Should I chill the cheesecake overnight?
Absolutely — chilling overnight allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, it works beautifully, though homemade caramel gives a richer flavor.
What type of cocoa powder is best?
Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives a deeper, smoother chocolate flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to two days in advance and store it refrigerated.
How do I slice the cheesecake cleanly?
Use a hot knife, wiping between each cut for neat slices.
Can I add chocolate chips to the brownie base?
Yes, adding chocolate chips will make the base even more fudgy and decadent.
Conclusion
This Caramel Brownie Cheesecake combines the best of two beloved desserts into one show-stopping masterpiece. Each bite offers the perfect balance of chewy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and buttery caramel. Whether you serve it at a festive dinner or savor a slice quietly with coffee, it’s guaranteed to impress. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to dessert for every celebration.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!